Peter Obi has criticised the continued detention of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, describing it as politically motivated and a threat to democratic principles. Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna, Obi warned that the situation undermines due process and respect for the rule of law.
Obi argued that El-Rufai voluntarily returned to the country before his arrest and should not be treated like a fugitive. He urged authorities to allow legal procedures to take their course and ensure that the former governor’s rights are respected until proven guilty.
El-Rufai has remained in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) since February 18 after being transferred from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), where he was initially held over allegations of money laundering and abuse of office.
In a related development, the Department of State Services (DSS) has filed cybercrime charges against him, with a court hearing scheduled for April 23, 2026. His legal team has challenged the detention, alleging abuse of power and misuse of court processes by security agencies.
Family members of the former governor have also called for his release, insisting that due legal procedures must be followed. The case continues to generate debate across political circles, raising concerns about its implications for Nigeria’s justice system and the broader political climate ahead of the 2027 elections.
